Orthodontic treatment modalities: a qualitative assessment of Internet information

The present study aimed to determine the quality, accuracy, reliability and usability of Internet information, regarding different orthodontic treatment modalities.

Google AdWords identified five popular keywords: Cosmetic braces, fixed braces, Removable braces, Quick braces and risks. These were entered in five search engines, with the resultant websites analysed using five validated assessment tools. Intra-examiner reliability was assessed, descriptive and inferential analysis of the data undertaken.

Good intra-examiner reliability and consistency was observed. A total of 119 websites were included for analysis, with the keywords cosmetic and fixed braces accounting for 55% of identified websites. Invisalign was the most offered treatment (80%). Specialist orthodontists produced the highest, whilst general dentists advertising short-term options produced the lowest quality scoring websites. LIDA provided the most accurate assessment of quality (mean 62.02, SD 7.48). Regression analysis found a significant relationship between author type and a questions and answer sections with both Discern (P < 0.001) and LIDA (P = 0.002) scores, respectively.

Quality of Information regarding orthodontic treatment was variable, with the highest scoring websites were produced by orthodontic specialists and Invisalign the most offered treatment. There is a clear need for valid and reliable websites to better guide patients.